Mikel worry for Super Eagles

Nigeria have played down fears over the fitness of star midfielder John Obi Mikel.

By Razwan Mirza

Last Updated: 24/05/10 5:20pm

Nigeria have played down fears over the fitness of John Obi Mikel, who is recovering from a knee injury - less than three weeks before the start of the World Cup in South Africa.

The 23-year-old picked up the knock during Chelsea's 2-1 defeat to Tottenham back in April missing the Blues' title run-in.

The midfielder recently underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus, but reports have suggested that he may be struggling to be fit for the tournament, which begins on 11th June.

Nigeria Football Federation media officer Idah Peterside does not believe there is cause for concern.

He told www.kickoffnigeria.com: "We are confident here that he will be okay. Monday is the last day of his rehabilitation and physiotherapy sessions, and the staff here are being sent there to speak with the Chelsea people to see that both sides can work together on a harmonised programme that will be in the interest of the player."

The West Africans are in Group B for the finals alongside Argentina, Greece and South Korea.